That Which Is: Umasvati/Umasvami With the Combined Commentaries of Umasvati/Umasvami, Pujyapada and Siddhasenagani

by Tattvartha Sutra, Nathmal Tatia, L. M. Singvi

That Which Is, known as the Tattvartha Sutra to Jains, is recognized by all four Jaina traditions as the earliest, most authoritative and comprehensive summary of their religion. Unique in bringing together classical commentaries from each tradition, this translation of the Tattvartha Sutra provides in one volume a detailed explanation of the universe, the place of humanity within it, and the path through it to liberation.

Genres: Religion, Philosophy, Ancient, Spirituality

384 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Jason]

It would be arrogant to give this a star rating. (I mean, how do you rate The Bible or the Qu'ran? How many thumbs up do you give the Diamond Sutra?)

However, there's one thing worth noting. If you're interested in learning the history and beliefs of Jains, you'll get that here. But you'll also get a walloping dollop of metaphysics. The Tattvartha Sutra lists in intimidating details the size, duration, types and sub-types of realms, beings, matter, karma, and more.

The translation and commentary are clear and helpful. But this is not an Introduction to Jainism. It's a DEEP dive.

[Tynan Brooks]

Very interesting how central cosmology, including distances within space, are in this Jain text. Brings to mind the centrality of cosmology, ontology, etc. to all worldviews; and that includes the scientistic, secular view that now dominates.

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinante. Este es probablemente el texto autoritativo del jainismo así que cualquier persona interesada en esta antigua religión de la India debe leerlo y estudiarlo.

[Vipul Shah · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the book which helped me to create the Jambudveep series. It explained and translated in such a simplified way that you can understand whole Tattvartha Sutras so easily.